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Molds produce tiny
spores to reproduce. Mold spores waft through the indoor and
outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp
spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever
they are growing on in order to survive. There are molds
that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods. When
excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth
will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem
remains undiscovered or un-addressed. There is no practical
way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor
environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to
control moisture.
Basic Mold Cleanup
The key to mold control is moisture control. It is important
to dry water damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to
prevent mold growth. If mold is a problem in your home,
clean up the mold and get rid of the excess water or
moisture. Fix leaky plumbing or other sources of water. Wash
mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry
completely. Absorbent materials (such as ceiling tiles &
carpet) that become moldy may have to be replaced. Ten
Things You Should Know About Mold
1.Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold
exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other
respiratory complaints.
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2.There is no
practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the
indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is
to control moisture.
3.If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must
clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4.Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent
mold growth.
5.Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60% ) to decrease mold
growth by: venting bathrooms, dryers, and other
moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air
conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and
using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and
cleaning.
6.Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and
furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7.Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and
dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles,
that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8.Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for
condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping,
exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9.In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do
not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by
classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or
frequent condensation).
10.Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on
virtually any substance, providing moisture is present.
There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and
foods. |